MA International Development

Postgraduate Entry requirements

1. Academic Qualifications: Postgraduate applicants are expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree from a recognized institution, with a minimum academic achievement of 60% to 80%.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with minimum component scores of two at 6.0/6.5 and the remaining components at 7.0 or above.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with minimum sub-scores of Reading 22, Listening 21, Speaking 23, and Writing 21.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, including 59 or above in all components.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Warwick offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students pursuing their academic aspirations at one of the UK's leading universities. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate financial barriers to higher education. 

Chancellor's International Scholarship: The Chancellor's International Scholarship is offered to outstanding international PhD applicants across all disciplines. This scholarship covers the full payment of overseas tuition fees and provides a generous stipend to support living expenses. Recipients of this scholarship are selected based on academic excellence and research potential.

Warwick Marshall Scholarship: The Warwick Marshall Scholarship is open to students from select developing countries who wish to pursue a Master's degree at Warwick. This scholarship covers full tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses for the duration of the Master's program. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their home countries.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship: Warwick participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship scheme, which enables students from eligible Commonwealth countries to pursue a Master's degree in selected subjects at the university. This scholarship covers tuition fees, airfare, living expenses, and other allowances. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria outlined by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.

Other Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and faculties at Warwick offer specific scholarships and funding opportunities for international students based on academic merit, research potential, and other criteria. These scholarships may vary by program and are typically advertised on departmental websites.

External Funding Sources: In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including government scholarships, corporate sponsorships, and international organizations offering financial support for higher education. The university's international office provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external funding opportunities.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MA International Development program from the University of Warwick possess a diverse skill set that prepares them for various career opportunities in the field of international development.

1. Development Officer/Coordinator: Many graduates pursue roles as development officers or coordinators within non-governmental organizations (NGOs), charities, or development agencies. They design, implement, and monitor development projects aimed at addressing poverty, inequality, and social injustice in different parts of the world.

2. Project Manager: Graduates with strong organizational and leadership skills may work as project managers overseeing development initiatives in sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, or community development. They manage project budgets, timelines, and stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery and impact.

3. Policy Analyst/Advisor: Some graduates choose to work as policy analysts or advisors in government agencies, think tanks, or international organizations. They conduct research, analyze policy trends, and provide recommendations to policymakers on issues related to sustainable development, poverty reduction, and human rights.

4. International Relations Specialist: Graduates interested in diplomacy and global affairs may pursue careers as international relations specialists, focusing on development cooperation, humanitarian assistance, or peacebuilding initiatives. They engage in diplomatic negotiations, forge partnerships, and represent organizations in international forums.

5. Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist: Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) is crucial for assessing the effectiveness and impact of development projects and programs. Graduates with expertise in M&E methods and tools may work as specialists within development organizations, conducting evaluations, collecting data, and measuring outcomes to inform decision-making and improve program effectiveness.

6. Researcher/Academic: For those inclined towards academia and research, opportunities exist in universities, research institutes, and policy think tanks. Graduates may pursue doctoral studies or research positions, conducting research on development issues, publishing academic papers, and contributing to policy debates and knowledge generation in the field.

7. Social Entrepreneur: Some graduates leverage their skills and knowledge to launch social enterprises or start-ups focused on innovative solutions to development challenges. They develop business models that address social or environmental issues while generating sustainable economic benefits for communities.

8. Humanitarian Aid Worker: Graduates interested in emergency response and humanitarian assistance may work for humanitarian organizations, providing aid and support to populations affected by natural disasters, conflicts, or other crises. They may work in areas such as emergency relief, refugee assistance, or disaster risk reduction.

9. Community Development Officer: Graduates may work at the grassroots level as community development officers, collaborating with local communities to identify needs, mobilize resources, and implement projects that promote sustainable development, social cohesion, and empowerment.

10. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager: With increasing emphasis on corporate sustainability and social responsibility, graduates may work in CSR roles within corporations, advising on ethical business practices, community engagement initiatives, and partnerships with development organizations.